SFR expands for 2010

Good news for those of us who are fans of the only owner/driver in the IndyCar Series: We will be seeing more of Sarah Fisher Racing in 2010. On Friday, just prior to qualifying for this weekend's race, SFR held a press conference, during which it was announced that Sarah will be competing in nine races next year; three more than this season.

Furthermore, SFR will be adding a second car for four events (three of them being races that Sarah will also compete in) to be driven by 2006 Firestone Indy Lights champion Jay Howard.

Once again, Sarah's #67 car will carry sponsorship from discount merchandisers Dollar General: Howard's #66 car will be sponsored by Tire Kingdom.

Fisher told reporters that it was an easy choice to select Howard, who ran five races in 2008 for the short-lived Roth Racing squad (who's shops were literally next door to SFR's) and five Indy Lights events this year as he worked to keep his skills sharp - and his desire to return to the IndyCar ranks known. "We got to know Jay really well from karting and he and Roth Racing were neighbors of ours. We saw his potential and really wanted to work with him. I think Jay has a lot more than on-track savvy. Having a partner out there changes everything. We can share data for our cars, and it gives us both an edge for solving any issues during a race. Two minds are always better than one. He's really good in the boardroom as well, and for a race car driver -- especially at a small team -- that's necessary these days."

For his part, Howard told reporters that he planned to celebrate this deal by streaking on the beachfront!

If he actually carries out that promise, he should get out of jail in plenty of time to fulfill his new job requirements.